The final type of wood flooring isn't wood at all but a laminate imitation. This flooring is made from photographs of wood placed between a fiberboard backing and a clear plastic coating. The advantages of this flooring material are the cost ($5-$8 per square foot installed), ease of installation (that homeowners can even do themselves), and its ability to take a beating.

It is exciting to have so many choices for a lovely wood floor. But like we always say, do your homework before you make your choice. Consider the function of the area and then pick the flooring that will do the best job.

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Architects Ann Robinson, AIA, and Annie Vernon, AIA, welcome your design questions at Ask@RenovationDesignGroup.com. Robinson and Vernon are founding principals of Renovation Design Group, www.RenovationDesignGroup.com, a local architectural firm specializing in residential remodeling design. To register for "Remodeling a Home with Character & Class" or another seminar, call 533-5331.